Martial Arts for Adults

Adult students at Leading Edge Martial Arts study a curriculum of Non Competition Based Mixed Martial Arts. The instructors have put together a well rounded, hybrid style of martial arts which pulls highlights from many different systems teaching students a pratical Self Defense oriented system while keep some traditional martial arts elements.

Leading Edge Martial Arts has been voted the Best Martial Arts School in the Lehigh Valley for nine years in a row. Our professional instructors pride themselves on providing our students with a best possible experience on every visit.
We offer non-competition based mixed martial arts for Men, Women, and Children. In our children’s program, our focus is on Self-Confidence, Self-Discipline, and Self-Defense. In our adult program, the focus shifts to Self Defense, Fitness, and Stress Relief. LEMA incorporates principles and concepts from many different styles of martial arts in order to develop a practical and applicable approach to every day self-defense including stand up arts such as karate and kickboxing, and grappling arts such as judo and jiujitsu, LEMA’s curriculum continues to evolve as new concepts become available.
The Cage Fitness program at LEMA is a ½ hour, high intensity, interval training program. It is the best ½ hour workout that can be found in the Lehigh Valley. In just 30 minutes, our LEMA instructors will have you dripping in sweat and beaming with exhilaration. Classes are available for Men, Women, and Children.

Martial Arts Programs

Adult Martial Arts Program

At Leading Edge Martial Arts, the goal in the Adult program is to build
Confidence, a peak level of...

Cage Fitness Classes

What Our students say

"I love training at LEMA becuase I'm not confined to a particular style of martial arts. We can do Tae Kwon Do one day and Grappling another."

Mark Vivanco

"Sensei Rob and all the Deshis work with the children in a group but throught the class, go around and help the child as an individual."

Theresa Bower

"Lema is my home away from home. They offer fantastic classes for babies, children and adults. There staff is incredible. I have been taking cage fitness classes there for 3 years and started mma training a little over a year ago. I absolutely LOVE it there!"

Jen Burker

"Amazing staff!! My son has been taking classes for more than 2 years and continues to be motivated. He has gained confidence and self discipline, as well as made some great friends! The adult cage fitness classes are also wonderful...amazing instructors!! LEMA is not only invested in their students, but in the community as well...they are always willing to support local organizations and schools."

Tracey Zegalia

"Leading Edge Martial Arts is an amazing school. Both of my boys have trained there for several years and it has helped them grow into very strong, disciplined, confident people. I would HIGHLY recommend LEMA to anyone looking for a martial arts school. Great staff, clean enviroment, all around great school!"

Laura Panko

"Been training here for 11 years now and has been considered my second home since. Employees and instructors are great and are willing to do anything for anyone. I wouldn't be who I am today if it weren't for LEMA. I love you guys, you'll always be a part of my heart!"

Alyssa Hetzer

"Sensei Joe Kortbawi and the staff at Leading Edge Martial Arts - Bethlehem are amazing! My son has been taking Martial Arts with Sensei Joe for two years and has developed skills and respect for those skills that will last him a lifetime. In addition to the Martial Arts program, the Cage Fitness program has assisted me in loosing weight and acheiving a healthier lifestyle. The Leading Edge commitment goes beyond the mat.They are very dedicated to their communities and help out many charities as well including breast cancer awareness, MDA and children's cancer."

Shelly Kuhns Laudenslager

"My kids absolutely love taking karate classes and doing Kids Cage Fitness at LEMA.Instructors are knowledgeable and friendly. One of the best MA schools in the area."

Tati Vlad

My son really enjoyed Leading Edge. He had a number of friends that studied martial arts at different schools around the lehigh valley, but none of them enjoyed it as much a my son. Sensei Rob has mastered the technique of teaching the kids martial arts while still ensuring that they are having a blast. My son actually asked to go to extra classes he liked it so much. Plus I liked the fact that I never got pressured into signing any contracts. Great overall experience, staff, and facility. He truly cares about the kids he teaches.

Tony C

My son has been a student at Leading Edge for over 2 years and he Loves it! Leading Edge Martial Arts has a fun, friendly and informative class environment for my son. Sensei Rob and his staff are extremely personable & knowledgeable. At Leading Edge there is a sense of community, discipline, and family values. LEMA is the best martial arts school in the Lehigh Valley! I would highly recommend them and I cannot imagine my son training anywhere else!

Linda Magnavita

Leading Edge Martial Arts has been a great experience for my son, he really enjoys going to the school twice a week. The staff at LEMA is awesome they really help my son build his confidence and strengths. Sensei Rob is a fantastic teacher has the patients to work with all the kids, no matter the age. We are so glad that we found LEMA and the staff that comes with it!! GREAT people, GREAT place!!!

Laurin Mironov

We love Leading Edge Martial Arts-Allentown!It is the best thing that has happened to our kids and one of the best decisions we could have made for them. We researched/visited several different martial arts schools and from the first time we went to LEMA our kids loved the staff and the classes. Our son was very shy and kept to himself and our daughter was the complete opposite! LEMA not only teaches them self defense and discipline, but also core values that we all would want our kids to have. They have both benefitted and improved by going to LEMA. Our son is now more outgoing and both kids are much more disciplined. Sensei Rob and the entire staff not only care about their students, they care about their families as well. Great facility, awesome staff and flexible schedule.

Lauren Serratore

Over two years ago, I started taking cage fitness classes at Leading Edge Martial Arts. I remember thinking at the end of my first class that this was the hardest I had ever physically worked my body in 30 minutes of time. I remember the instructors taking their time with me. I remember them “meeting me where I was at” vs. treating me just like every other experienced student. Each of these instructors, and others along the way, believed in me and saw what I needed to get better and to get stronger. And so the journey continued and has led me to today. I still love Cage and I have also loved adding kickboxing and LEMA fit into my schedule. Great staff make LEMA a 5 out of 5!

Jill Helmer

Great place- great with kids. Best thing I did was sign my little man up

Anthony Campolo

I was impressed, right away, with my granddaughter's first lesson. She had trained at another martial arts school, in a different form. I liked them but had some concerns on class size and age levels mixed, also in keeping an eye on all of the kids. I've been teaching dance for over 40 years and have high expectations of how a class should be run, and how kids are handled. LEMA had a good handle on keeping the kids in line, making sure that they all worked hard, and had corrections, but the kids came out happy. That is HOW you teach!!! Good job! I am glad that she is with LEMA now. Thanks.

Janet LaCava

Wouldn't have my daughter taught any other place. Sensei Rob and his staff are great at what they do and they keep the kids, as well as the parents, interested and involved in everything they do.

Josh Kalmar - Father

Josh Kalmar

Great staff. Easy to see how much they care about the kids!

Shashin Shah

I'm there every Thursdays and Saturdays for classes and the time flys so fast it feels like they are teasing me when they end class

Abu Shaw

I loved the womens self defense class today, very great staff

Jenn Valek

It's a great place loved the self defense class very helpful and fun.

Angelina Aquirre

Awesome instructors and a great a great place to get in shape. The atmosphere is very welcoming and sensei Joe can make a believer out of anyone!!! I would recommend leading edge martial arts to anyone who is serious about training hard!!!

Bobby Moy

I have my 4 kids at LEMA and they love it. They learn the skills necessary to lead a responsible life! They enjoy going to class and being a part of such a great culture! -Thanks LEMA!!

Dom Porfidia

An amazing place with great instructors. You can tell they really enjoy working with kids. Our daughter LOVES coming to class. Thank you LEMA team for providing such a positive place.

Lorrie McCans

Love the faces. Love the energy. smile emoticon Happy times

Toni Ramos

Our 4 year old son has really enjoyed LEMA and so have we. The staff is great!! They are very encouraging. It is easy to see the positive influence and excitement on our son's face after every class. He is glowing with confidence while still learning discipline and values.

Ben Sparks

I love cage fitness . Only 30 minutes for a full body workout. I want to bring all my friends so they can try out the class too.

Carly Red

What a great place for children to learn karate. My son has been coming for 1 year and loves it. Leading edge has been wonderful.

Debra Race-Getz

My son has been going to karate for 1 year, Sensei Joe is Great with the kids!!

Paul Getz

My daughter absolutely loved Sensei Joe and his staff. Loved to see the kids having fun with the arts!

Brooke Irving-Moyer

I'm so impressed with sensei Rob and the teachers. They get to know all the kids. They really care about them. My 5 year old absolutely loves it. He has learned so much in just 4 months. Truly great place.

Raquel Akillas

This studio has had a major positive impact on me. It has helped me grow as a student and a person.

Ryan Dubois

LEMA is an amazing place and a great environment to learn in! The instructors are so helpful and the other students make learning there so fun! You really do become part of a family and have an awesome time every day! Everyone knows how it was to become a white belt for the first time, scary, but ultimately worth it in the long run. Not only do the lessons they teach you in class apply to your daily life, learning martial arts at LEMA helps you become a better person off the mat too.

Kaylee Ruiz

The Women's Self Defense Class was Amazing-Every woman NEEDS to take it!!! Shout out to Sensei Rob for keeping our community safe.

Kim Liszka "Captain Kim" American Ninja Warrior

My granddaughter studied at another school in the Lehigh Valley, and they were very good, but when they had to switch to this one due to moving, the difference was obvious. Very disciplined, but the kids love the teachers because there is a lot of love given to them, too. The classes are more organized, the kids learn to pay better attention, and the pricing is excellent, too. I really like the teachers. I've been teaching for 43 years and I know a good teacher when I see one. Highly recommend this school.

Dance Mom

I'm an adult student at LEMA and I find it so energizing! Perfect combination of fitness, technique and inspiration. I always leave class feeling confident and determined to make the most of every day. Karate class membership also allows you to take optional cage fitness classes in the front of the bldg. Sensei, Deshi, Joshu, and Sempai are all fantastic instructors. Worth every penny.

Genevieve Wilde Kordelski

My 6 year old son has taken 10 classes so far and he is showing such enthusiasm and drive. I am quite impressed with Sensei Rob and his whole staff. The dojo is top notch and the equipment is great. I can't give a higher recommendation.

Darin Mazepa

My daughter loved going to to practice! She was always excited to go and learn more and work with the great teachers! We recommend this place to anyone even slightly interested in martial arts...you will learn to love it!!

Jamie Rieger Lies

Sensei-Rob Wetmore you are such a talented instructor. Thank you for sharing your expertise on self defense with my Realtor family. Your demonstrations are on point, and your delivery is a unique blend of seriousness and humor. I highly recommend your school to everyone looking to learn martial arts. I also HIGHLY suggest everyone utilize your free self defense workshop. I learned so much. On a personal note, I am very happy to have my son join the LEMA family in Bethlehem. He could not have chosen a better school. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Donna Bartholomew Sacco

I love the atmosphere at leading edge. It's such a fun workout with fun people. It really has helped my stress levels to keep me calm during work when I'm screamed at by customers all day. #lemalove

AnneMarie Elaina Dralus

Sensei Rob, is by far, the absolute best thing you can do for your children! LEMA has been wonderful for my son. He was a very shy & very quiet 5 year old when he began, just months later he is more outgoing, open, and his confidence is growing. He looks forward to his classes and moving up. You can tell Sensei really cares about his students, and runs an amazing program. The instructors keep the kids motivated, and engaged the entire time. Even sitting the kids down for a few moments to talk about important age appropriate current issues such as listening to parents, how and when to use martial arts, safety, ect. The kids enjoy and we as parents appreciate! LEMA is a family atmosphere where everyone seems to know everyone. There are always extra actives for the kids to participate in -

Jessica B

The instructor is great! My daughter loves him super personable!

Ameenah Thompson

Sense Joe is an amazing teacher. He makes the class fun and very interesting..

Ruben Vargas

Top notch! All children and adults should be involved in. We are losing our functional movements with the likes of video games, loss of gym classes in schools, media etc.... I understand the importance of specific movements being a Clinical Exercise Physiologist. Sensei Joe and his staff have a fantastic routine in place that keep the kids/adults involved. If your child/children want to have fun while earning I recommend LEMA! A mix of all different areas of MMA.

John Stone

Got my child involved due to autism, and ADHD sometimes its a fight to get there but by the end of class always smiling. Instructors are great take there time to instruct the child, very friendly answer questions immediately. Very pleased with there services.

Lynn Malone

Such a great place. Very clean and a super friendly staff. I would highly recommend classes at this studio!

Chantel Nickel

Went to a very informative free self defense class. I would go again and recommend to my friends.

Aimee Dunn

Went for a women's self defense class. The class was awesome, the instructor was easy to understand and fun. I would definitely be back. Thank you!

Vivian Younes

I have been nothing but impressed with LEMA and it's staff. Sensei Rob is the best!

Karissa Kuser

Yesterday was my first time. I got so emotional seeing my grandson learning discipline and self control. Thank for your patients with the kids

Awilda Sanchez

The staff is great and friendly. Kids are always happy, and being their as both a fitness instructor and a prior student, it's definitely a place where you don't have to worry about feeling awkward about stepping in. You will enjoy any class experience you go in looking for; the fitness program is my favorite!

Toni Ramos

Leading edge martial arts is the best they really do such a fine job with their students . I am proud that my grandson has the opportunity to go their and learn. Love leading edge martial arts.

Tina Walsh

I had my first cage fitness class and my son who is 4 and VERY shy met with sensei Rob for Martial Arts and had a great time!! I met with Tony for my class and she was awesome. She came right up and introduced herself while I was completely lost which made me feel welcomed. The class definitely kicked my butt!! Tony really seems to enjoy what she does and she is good at it too! I like that the class was at my own pace and I seen everyone really did go with what made them comfortable. I will continue to recommend this class to anyone in need of a great workout in a clean, friendly environment!! After my workout I was able to watch my son's first meeting with Sensei Rob. The schedules are flexible and nice if you have a child and want to work out while making sure your child is safe... the

Danica Lynn

Sense Joe is an amazing teacher. He makes the class fun and very interesting..

Ruben Vargas

The instructor is great! My daughter loves him super personable!

Ameenah Thompson

Has tough me so much thank you sensei Joe for helping me get to black belt and for putting me on the right path to being kind to everyone.

Alysa Mae Corby

Awesome staff & great building up the kids & adults confidence & skills. Nothing is given everything is earned!

Andy Noe

LEMA is a second home for us. Everyone is wonderful. The teaching is excellent and there are many fun activities throughout the year. Glad we found them!

Lacey Skodocek

Very well organized and well structured-- while incorporating new and fun events (usually for great causes too). The place is always clean, and the staff is always friendly and professional. Having an app to keep up with schedule changes and events is a big plus, too!

Luke L1ps

Absolutely wonderful going into a dojo with such exciting fellow students who are eager to learn and train. Everyone welcomes you with a great attitude and a smile. As well as the head of the staff Sensi Rob who is wonderful and experienced at his job. Personally me a while back (5 years ago)he would always help me and teach me through my problems that i had with some of the curriculums; then 5 years later he has still done the same. What it shows is that he is very patient and skilled in what he does. He has a great humor, and personally me he is one of the most inspirational people that ive met. Once you go for one class with him you will never forget the fabulous experience. So with everything i have to say i would definitely recommend this dojo to anyone who is reading this or who ask

Pasha

When I first came to LEMA to watch my grandson, I was impressed with Sensei Rob and his staff. They are the right mix of patience, fun, and firmness in teaching the kids. I was so impressed I decided to renew my own study after 30 plus years.

Brian J Puhala

Best martial arts school on the east coast. Two locations, Allentown and Bethlehem. Family oriented, many extra events for the children and families, and top level trainers. I highly recommend this martial arts school as I have trained here for 4 1/2 years and have earned my first degree black belt. Still train occasionally today.

Dave Roxberry

My child has been taking martial arts at LEMA for almost 2 years and I have been very impressed with what he has learned and accomplished as well as how well run the program is. The schedule is incredibly flexible and easy to adjust around other activities your child may be in. They focus on martial arts but mix in real life lessons (bullying, strangers, respect, ect) During the classes the kids are expected to be disciplined and listen to instructions. They do "extra" activities such as light sabor training, board breaking and even a movie night that give the kids a chance to interact with the instructors in a more laid back setting. It really is a good mix of structure and fun.

Denae Ervin

My son has been training with Leading Edge, for almost 9 years. 4 1/2 of those as a Jr. Black belt. We tried out several Martial Arts schools and none of them compared. The amount of respect shown to this art, at this facility, is hands down, the BEST in the Lehigh Valley. Our son, originally began martial arts because, his occupational therapist suggested it, for his core strength. He has gained so much more than that, in the past almost 9 years. The amount of self discipline, respect, and confidence he has has gained from his training is remarkable. I would HIGHLY recommend this school to anyone looking for a Martial Arts school. Thank you, Leading Edge Martial Arts, for instilling such great values within my son.

Laura Panko

My son has been training at LEMA for close to 3 1/2 years he started at age 7. His Focus, Confidence and Self disipline have all increased. Sensei Rob understands what children need. He keeps his students motivated and focused in class with his teaching skills. He can be tuff on them at times not in a demeaning manor but to push them to their full potential. He believes in his students and wants them all to succeed. I highly recommend Leading Edge.

Anthony Campolo

Great place to learn discipline and the principles of martial arts! ????????

Dr. Rich Battista

Leading Edge Martial Arts, came highly recommended from a friend of mine who has worked with the instructors as well as Sensei Rob, in different venues in the community. I was told that they were great with the children and really took the time to encourage them and help them with self discipline and focus. As a father, of a son with 2 diagnosis, I must admit at first I was slightly concerned that he was going to be a distraction in the classes. Let me tell you that the recommendation was nothing short of being spot on! Sensei Rob has worked with my son for over a year now. Josiah has worked his way to a green belt and has become more disciplined and focused. A few times my son wanted to give up because he was frustrated. All the instructors, would always take extra time with him to help him along the way. They have been nothing short of a miracle. I am forever grateful for the time and effort they have put into helping my son achieve his goals. I highly recommend Leading Edge to all my Friends now because I Have seen them work with many students over these Last 16 months now.

Christopher Yarnell

For a person who has been through a lot this place is very healthy for both self confidence and self motivation .... the instructors are all very helpful for both adults and children all ages .... this is a place I would highly recommend to all families !!

Nell L

Leading Edge Martial Arts is amazing. I would recommend for anyone who has children interested in Martial Arts or adults who themselves are interested. They not only teach you martial arts but to believe in yourself and your abilities!!! Sensei Rob along with the other staff members are very passionate and work to instill self confidence and pride!!! They are family oriented and maintain a safe environment for learning.

Sarah Schmidt

Leading Edge Martial Arts is amazing. I would recommend for anyone who has children interested in Martial Arts or adults who themselves are interested. They not only teach you martial arts but to believe in yourself and your abilities!!! Sensei Rob along with the other staff members are very passionate and work to instill self confidence and pride!!! They are family oriented and maintain a safe environment for learning.

Holly Groome

Job well done. All the instructors are great. Facility is clean, very clean (which is huge - especially with bare feet) and getting down on the mat. Lots of other activities to keep the kids engaged in the community and do some good (re: donations for military, Halloween parades, kicks for cancer). Our experience has been positive. If you are considering, I'd recommend giving it a try. Just be mindful that Karate does require time and practice. It wouldn't be fair if your enrolled your child and didn't put the time in for them to be successful.

DM M

Best decision I made for my son was enrolling him at LEMA. Staff is very professional, firm yet compassionate. My sons self esteem, focus self discipline and respect for others has increased tremendously. They do a great job and really care about the students.

tonyshoes87

Leading Edge came to a conference I was at. Very informative but also made it fun for everyone. After leaving i felt a little more confident know what I was shown/taught Thank you for the class! Wish I lived closer!

Mindy Fedele

My grandson is learning self confidence and self control! LEMA is a great place!

Lisa Lengenbach

Free self defense class for women last night was amazing!

Amanda Kochan-Dewey

I have experienced a few classes at Leading Edge Martial Arts of Allentown. When I want to burn some calories but don’t want to have to workout all night I get a cage fitness class. It’s also great when you have had a bad day and just need to punch something. I also have attended the very important class for ALL women and kids to take the FREE women’s defense class. Sensei Rob gives a very informative class where he teaches you many life saving moves. He also makes it light with his humor. I would highly recommend parents to sign their kids up for martial arts classes for self defense, because we just live in an age where ever child needs to be able to defend and protect themselves !

Samantha Dellatore

My 7 year old granddaughter attends karate classes 2/3 times a week here. The people that work here are professional, humorous, hard-working and excellent teachers. I recommend Leading Edge to anyone with young children who they like to teach discipline, fun, and self-defense at the same time.

Ken Smith

Fantastic!!!!!!! Clean, organized, unbelievable staff. My family is brand new and I already feel like we belong !

Kelly McFadden Salloum

LEMA has been fantastic for two of my kids. Sensei Rob and the rest of the staff are great with the kids. They teach wonderful skills about confidence, self-discipline, and self-defense. It has been a lot of fun for my kids, great exercise, and also they are learning invaluable life lessons in the process. I would definitely recommend LEMA!

Bethany Varvarelis

Truly Genuine people. They work wonderfully with children and adults.They have special events that support the community

Nancy Lou

We are very happy with LEMA-Allentown. Sensei Rob and his staff are very passionate about what they are teaching: self-respect, self-discipline, self-confidence--some of the tools that help children become productive citizens. Martial arts is a discipline, requiring hard work and dedication, but both parent and child will ultimately reap the rewards. My son has been attending for almost 3 years and the first time he "graduated" we witnessed what was truly inspiring: the abilities of each and every child's rank and their progress throughout their time there. Sensei Rob and his staff make it fun to learn and are willing to help anytime a child needs it. Would definitely recommend LEMA to anyone! Thanks for all that you do!

Michelle Cassidy Winter

Had the best time at the self-defense class. Everyone was very professional and helpful. My 11 year-old also loved it and learned a lot.

Delilah Scott

LEMA first off has an Excellent staff. The classes are hard work, but fun. If you are looking for something to put you in the moment, make you work hard, and still have fun, LEMA is the place to be.

Jesssica McLaughlin

LEMA is a great place for my two kids to learn how to protect, discipline themselves and to be respectful and helpful to others. The kids learn valuable skills at LEMA. Sensei Rob, Deshi Bart and the staffs are excellent and care about the kids. Thank you.

Yassi Razavi

Leading Edge is has an awesome studio and the owner is so welcoming. We really love this place and what it gives back to community.

Rosemarie Bencivenni hulbert

My son loves going to karate! His focus and listening skills have improved and overall has a much better attitude.

Amanda Panian

My son loves his classes at LEMA. Especially, during light saber training!

Jennie Nicholas-McAfee

Sensei Wetmore is an excellent martial artist and a fine mentor. I would highly recommend his schools.

James Froebe

Good place great people. And sensi Joe sure can make it fun when testing ur belts.....

Jesse Smith

My son started at LEMA a few months before his 6th birthday. Aside from staying in shape and learning how to defend himself, Sensei Joe has taught him confidence, respect, and numerous other invaluable qualities. Sensei is SENSEITIONAL with these children! If you are considering classes, this is the place to be.

Dave Gary

So far so good. Sensei Joe and Luis are great with the kids. Making it fun for them to learn. They aren't there just for the training! I'VE SEEN A MAJOR CHANGE IN MY DAUGHTER ALREADY.